Review: Myo Gesture Control Armband (Black)

The Myo Gesture Control Armband was created by Thalmic Labs. The goal of this device is to give you motion control abilities without the need for a presentation controller, Wii remote or anything else you have to hold in your hand. With this device, all you have to do is slip it on, just like you would a blood pressure cuff, and control things with the various movements of your wrist and fingers.

Currently, the ability of the armband is limited to PowerPoint presentations and various media playback for apps such as iTunes, Windows Media Player, and Netflix. However, the company is working on creating additional features and updates that will make the armband usable for a wide array of different activities.

Learning a bit more about the armband can help you determine if this is a device that belongs in your life. For those who love innovation, chances are they will jump at the opportunity to purchase this interesting and functional device.

Top Features

The actual design of the Myo Gesture Control Armband includes a series of rectangular pods that are held together by a rubber lining. On the back of each pod, there are three medical grade EMG sensors made of stainless steel that detect the arm’s electric impulses.

On the primary pod, you will find two sports indicator LEDs. One holds the Myo logo while the other turns green to let you know when the band is charging and blue when it is turned on and connected.

Some of the most notable features of the Myo Gesture Control Armband (Black) include the following:

It is fairly small measuring between 7.5 and 13 inches in circumference and weighs just 3.3 ounces.

Includes micro USB cable for charging and Bluetooth adapter.

Compatible with Windows 7 and 8 and Mac OS X 10.8 and higher. Works with mobile devices that use Android 4.3 or higher and iOS 7.0 and higher.

More than 100 applications offered on the Myo Market.

Features a long battery life.

Includes 10 sizing clips to provide a perfect fit for all arm sizes.

What’s Unique About the Myo Gesture Control Armband (Black)

The most unique features offered by this armband is the technology behind it. It is able to recognize wrist turns, pinches and other hand gestures that are then translated into particular controls on a smartphone or computer.

The Myo has a look that is somewhat similar to a futuristic sweatband.

Can last an entire day when used continually or as much as a week when in standby mode.

Myo Gesture Control Armband (Black) Price

At $199.99 there are some users who think the price is a bit high for the limited functionality the Myo Gesture Control Armband offers at this point in time. However, the company is still working to improve options and technology to make it more functional and affordable. For the innovation behind this device, the price is actually quite reasonable and it offers technology that most people have not yet used or even had access to.

Potential Drawbacks

Unfortunately since the technology used with the Myo Gesture Control Armband is still new there are a few potential drawbacks with the device. For example, some users have reported that the performance of the device is inconsistent and that at times it is uncomfortable to wear. It also does not have a feature that allows the basic options to be modified.

There is also a significant learning period with the Myo Gesture Control Armband. Most people will not be able to just put it on and start using the gestures. The first step is to download the software and use the videos that set up the device and teach you the gestures.

Conclusion

When the included instructional videos are used, anyone can learn how to utilize the gesture-based movements to control the Myo Gesture Control Armband. In fact, with a bit of practice, they will find they are pretty easy to master. The control is based on five, specific hand gestures that are combined with a specific motion. You will also be able to feel when the Myo has synced with you thanks to haptic feedback, which includes short, medium and long series of vibrations.

Once purchased, you will also have access to over 100 different applications that are offered in the Myo Market. This provides you with control of various types of technology from any distance, including games and media. With this innovative armband, you can bring all your favorite applications to life.

At Tech Imperatives, we’re passionate about helping our readers learn about new technologies. We love reading and writing about the latest devices, so we have turned out interest into a useful resource that you can use to help you decide what types of consumer technology are right for you.

In addition to explaining general features included in products like smartphones, fitness trackers, and sleep wristbands, we give you specific details that will help you understand the pros and cons of each model.